Midfielder Matt Smith has been relishing his return to Newport County's starting line-up under boss Hayden Mullins.

Smith signed for the Exiles back in June 2025, but struggled for consistent minutes last season as they narrowly avoided relegation to the National League on the final day of the season.

The former Wales international had been second choice to Matt Dibley-Dias for much of the season, but a long-term injury to the Fulham loanee has now opened the door for Smith, who has impressed on his return.

"It's pleasing for me personally," said Smith.

"I've stayed fit and I've got back in the team and that's just what I want to do.

"I just want to play football and if I can contribute to the team being successful then that's even better."

Mullins now faces a selection headache in a strong County midfield, but it is a challenge Smith is loving.

"Having competition for places is healthy. If I don't perform or work as hard as I can then I know that there's plenty of players that can come in and take my position," he added.

"It should be an honour to play because it's a difficult thing with the amount of good players that we have in the squad."

Smith also opened up about the personal difficulties he faced last season and expressed his gratitude to the County faithful for their support during the period.

"At times last year it was difficult for me," he admitted.

"Frustration, disappointment and maybe things that you don't see on the outside looking in, but it was really difficult for me and it was tough and I've had to dig deep.

"Coming into this season I felt like I owed it to the Newport fans to try and get in the team. The support they showed me was fantastic so I wanted to try and back that up for them."